MUMBAI: Sachin Tendulkar, widely known as the “Little Master,” is regarded as one of the greatest cricketers in history.
With over 100 international centuries and more than 33,000 runs, his elegant technique and consistency kept him shining on the global stage for 24 years, bringing immense pride to India. However, many people may be surprised to learn that he once played against his own country—and for Pakistan.
This unusual incident was revealed by Tendulkar himself in his autobiography Playing It My Way and in interviews.
He explained that during Pakistan’s 1987 tour of India, a four-day practice match was scheduled between Pakistan and an Indian XI.
Due to injuries among a few Pakistani players, the team found itself short of fielders.
At that point, then-captain Imran Khan requested a substitute fielder from the Indian side.
As a young aspiring cricketer at the time, Tendulkar was asked to field for Pakistan at mid-on.
He described it as a strange and memorable moment—playing against his own country at the very start of his career.
During the match, he even managed to take a difficult catch off a shot by Dilip Vengsarkar, running hard to reach the ball and completing the catch successfully.
Tendulkar also shared several fascinating insights about Imran Khan and other players in his book, which he discussed in further detail elsewhere.
